This week’s vintage picks are brought to you by Linda of Selective Salvage.
Handmade Folk Art Pedal Car
What I like about this: The design is dashing and the paint job is great. But my favorite thing about this sweet little pedal car is that it is handmade! I like to think it was a one-of-a-kind gift from a doting grandpa. No telling if that fantasy is true but that’s the fun thing about vintage that doesn’t come with a specific pedigree…there’s no harm in the new owner spinning a special backstory.
Toy Model Fire Department Ladder Car
Why did this catch my eye? This late 19th-century fire department ladder truck caught my eye because the detail on it is phenomenal. In addition to a slew of wooden ladders, it retains a dozen painted buckets, a cast iron fireman’s helmet plus two cast iron axes. The paint and original stenciling appear to be in great shape given its age which makes me believe it has been highly prized by every lucky collector who has owned it over the years. Suppose the full-size version of this model is on display at the New York City Fire Museum?
Folk Art Metal Airplane
And this?: Another great piece of folk art, this metal airplane boasts rolling wheels, a propeller that turns and a spiffy paint job. The hooks on the wings indicate it was made to hang from the ceiling despite its large size (40″ wide x 38″ long x 21″ tall). Pair this with a copy of Fly Girls and you have the perfect gift for a little girl who dreams of growing up to be Amelia Earhart.
If the sight of these toys reminds you of your childhood wants, you’ll enjoy reading my friend Mary Ellen’s post “The gifts we wished for when we were 10.”
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